Top four places to donate in the wake of natural disasters

Lately, the news has been saturated with the devastation of tropical storms and hurricanes. Although seeing articles about these hurricanes may become redundant, it’s important to remember the damage caused by these storms can last for decades. With that in mind, it’s also important to be sure you’re donating to organizations that will use your money and resources wisely. 

1. All Hands Volunteers

All Hands Volunteers is a nonprofit volunteer program that partners with the local community to help rebuild homes, businesses and other important aspects of the community. Not only have they helped in past natural disasters, but they’ve already put their volunteers to work in Florida and Texas, clearing debris and rebuilding. Your donation will support their effort to restore life in these places.

2. UNICEF

UNICEF is an organization that has made advances in many different countries. They have tackled issues like Malaria, Ebola, education and trafficking, to name a few. Currently, a $28 donation to UNICEF USA will supply one emergency response kit containing essentials for a family. UNICEF puts 90 percent of every dollar you donate towards relief efforts.

3. Heart to Heart International

Heart to Heart International is not only collecting monetary donations, but also sending out medical professionals to treat the victims of these recent natural disasters. All of your donation will go towards the effort to provide medical care to those who are in desperate need of it.

4. Oxfam

Oxfam is an organization that’s dedicated to fighting poverty. They state that they rarely step in during natural disasters, but the U.S. government’s failure to provide aid to Puerto Rico has caused them to take action. Your donation to Oxfam will support their effort to working with government officials to advocate for faster, more effective emergency response.

5. Do your research and try to make only monetary donations.

While donating nonperishable items and clothing is generous, the cost to ship these items to disaster victims usually costs more than they are worth. Instead of using resources to ship materials to these affected areas, donate your money to organizations that will spend it wisely and directly on those in need.

Ashley Kestle can be reached at voices.spectator@gmail.com.

RELATED ARTICLES